Take a Peek At Our Travels

Epcot Without Lightning Lane: Our Honest Experience, Wait Times and Tips

Mon, 12 Oct 2026 22:04:20 GMT

My Real Experience, Favorite Moments & What We'd Do Differently

- Can you have an amazing day at EPCOT on a busy October Saturday without staying at a Disney resort AND without fast passes? Does off-season really make a difference? We put it to the test!

Why We Chose EPCOT

We were in Orlando for a work conference, so we decided to go to Disney for just one day . Not the traditional Disney experience by any stretch of the imagination, but for us it was about getting just a touch of the Disney magic. I love doing "something" Disney anytime we are in Orlando. Another pastime of mine is watching the Disney fireworks from outside the parks, but that's another post. Why did we choose Epcot? Well, I think it's because I love Soarin Across America, and they just updated it with a new program, AND we'd never ridden Guardians of the Galaxy and it's touted as easily the best ride at Disney. Who doesn't want to see what that's about?

Our October EPCOT Morning — Let the Adventure Begin!

We arrived at the park around 8:45 A.M on October 3rd, 2026. The resort guests were able to enter at 8:30 A.M., so ride times were already almost an hour for Guardians of the Galaxy, which we planned to rope drop. Parking was surprisingly light, and we were able to park close to the entrance. My oldest wasn't able to come with us, so it was just myself, my husband and our two teen girls. It didn't really feel very busy when we got to the entrance and we were through security in less than 15 min. Off to Guardians! Oh wait, we need breakfast. We stopped at the donut place right outside of Guardians and got some donuts and frozen lemonade. Breakfast of champions! Just a recommendation, but don't eat right before Guardians. If you know, you know.

Travel advisor tip: Arrive early at Epcot, and plan to rope drop the ride that normally has the longest wait times if you don't have a Lightning Lane for that ride. If you do, rope drop the next highest wait. Rope Drop means to arrive before opening and go straight to your priority attraction when you are allowed inside. They don't actually hold up a rope anymore.

The Attractions: What We Rode and What We Loved (In the Order We Rode Them)

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

We waited in line for Guardians about an hour. The posted wait time was 75 minutes, but we didn't wait that long. The queue keeps you occupied in typical Disney fashion with lots of interactive rooms and displays, so that helps with how long the wait feels. This ride is incredible, and so much fun. It's a roller coaster in a mostly dark environment, but done with perfection. Note that if you are going to do a Lightning lane, this is the ride to get one for. Posted time in the afternoon was well over 90 minutes on an off season day. Also, this is the ride that can make you motion sick. I said it before, but don't eat right before. I was fine on this one, but my youngest felt VERY nauseated when it was over and that was after I gave them Dramamine before we got to the park. 10/10

Test Track

We rode test track second, since it's right by Guardians. The queue is not fancy or shiny and this wait felt like twice what we had at Guardians. In reality, we waited close to an hour. Test Track is a fun ride, and it's not scary so all family members tall enough can ride this one. 9/10

Detour for lunch! We went to the food court style lunch at "The Land". This is in the same building as Living with the Land and Soarin'. My husband and I ate wood-fired salmon on rice with green beans and the girls had macaroni and cheese and a cookie. Nicest part about this place to eat? It's fully air-conditioned. You might fight over a chair here during the middle of summer, when the heat is the worst.

Soarin' Across America

Convenient that we were right next to Soarin' after lunch. It's a no-brainer that it was next. Spoiler alert! I already told you I love this ride. Posted wait time was 60 min after lunch, but we only waited about 40 min. The new program was stunning, with visuals of a ton of states and a truly free feeling as you soar over America. We all did think that the new ride seemed shorter, so that part was disappointing. But, we still love her! 10/10

Remy's Ratatouille Adventure (Above)

After Soarin', we walked down to Remy's Ratatouille Adventure. Again, posted time was longer than actual ride time but it was HOT at 1 P.M. in the afternoon. I mean, melt into a puddle hot. In October!! About the ride LOL, the ride is fun, and used to be Epcot's crown jewel before Guardians blew it away. Now, it's just a bit glitchy and sad. Why did you slow her down Epcot?? Maybe too many people getting motion sick. 6/10.

Frozen Ever After

We went to Frozen Ever After next. The humidity was terrible, and we grabbed some waters on the way because my youngest was about to fall out. When we got there, posted time was 70 minutes and I was beginning to remember why I love lightning lanes. We jumped in the line, and all of a sudden...RAIN. The three umbrellas intended to keep the line protected from the Florida sun were suddenly the most popular spot. Everyone loves to snuggle under an umbrella with 20 complete strangers, right? Then, lightning. Not the lane kind. The kind that makes the ride not move. WAIT...unless you have an actual lightning lane pass?? That line moved, but not ours. Annoying, but we got through it and finally made it in. The ride itself? Worth the wait! Frozen is so much fun and well done with fun songs and surprises along the way. 10/10

Travel advisor tip: I always tell my travelers to bring ponchos from Amazon because it rains at Disney a lot. Did I take my own advice? Nope, so here I am chilling in my $15 poncho. Dummy lol!

A Little Disney Magic, One Bite at a Time

After Frozen, we were wet and the alphabet soup was getting the best of us so we headed to our dinner reservation at Le Cellier. Our reservation was at 5:25, and we got there about 5:05 P.M. Our table wasn't ready, so we waited and rested our very tired feet. We had walked well over 10k steps at that point in the day! We enjoyed filet with Brussels sprouts and truffle butter, and mashed potatoes. For dessert, I had the most delicious caramel creme brûlée. Yum!! If riding all the rides is the most important thing to you, then a sit down reservation might not be part of the plan. That's ok! Everyone does the parks differently.

Wait, a few more attractions!

The Seas with Nemo and Friends

If you have smaller kids, this is a must do. If you have bigger kids, the part that comes right after is the fun part. The aquarium. The ride itself is very short, and "lame" as my teens have decided. It ends at a large aquarium, with sharks, rays, and several exhibits of cool fish. Don't skip it entirely just because it seems tame. 6/10 Littles will think this is 10/10.

Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana

This is not a Moana ride. That would be cool. However, this water garden is both interactive and beautiful at night. We saved our visit for after dark, when we could enjoy the vibe. If you want to get wet, you can. If not, it's not necessary to enjoy all that this area has to offer. Jumping fountains like Roller Coaster Tycoon?? I'm in! 8/10

Ending Our Day With a Little Disney Magic

At the end of the day, if you don't stay for the Disney fireworks, what are you even doing?? The rain died down just in time for Epcot's nightly fireworks show, Luminous the Symphony of Us. The stunning laser show combined with fireworks is set to Disney favorites and heart-string pulling vocals. We LOVED IT. Here's some photos from the show! 10/10

Our Final Verdict

Is Epcot worth the visit? Yes, it's a do not miss if you are visiting Walt Disney World! What would I have done differently? Get the lightning lane passes!! If it fits your budget, it will save you so much time and allow you to experience all of the other things that Epcot offers that we didn't do, like the Food and Wine Festival booths, for example. There was so much good food and we didn't try very much of it. Next time!

Planning Your Own Disney Adventure?

Dreaming of a Disney vacation but feeling overwhelmed by all the planning? That's where I come in!

At Take a Peek Travel , I help families plan vacations that fit their interests, travel style, and budget. From choosing the right Disney resort to understanding park options and making the most of your time, I'm here to make the planning process easier.

Ready to make your own Disney memories?

Contact Take a Peek Travel using the form below and let's start planning!

Holland America Signature vs. Ultimate Denali: Which Itinerary Fits Your Vacation?

Fri, 25 Sep 2026 13:31:11 GMT

Holland America Signature Denali vs. Ultimate Denali: Which Alaska Cruisetour Is Right for You?

If you’re planning an Alaska cruise and want to add Denali National Park, you’ve probably discovered that Holland America offers several different Cruisetour options. Two of the most popular choices are Signature Alaska & Denali and Ultimate Alaska & Denali .

At first glance, they can look very similar. Both combine an Alaska cruise with an overland journey into Alaska’s interior. Both include Denali. Both include the scenic McKinley Explorer® railway. And both can give you a much deeper Alaska experience than a cruise alone.

But there are some important differences — and choosing the right one really comes down to how much of Alaska you want to experience, how much time you have, and how you want to travel.

Signature Alaska & Denali: More Time Focused on Denali

Holland America describes its Signature Cruisetours as offering the best of Alaska and Denali , with more time at Denali than its shorter Classic itineraries.

Current Signature itineraries typically include:

A 7-day Glacier Discovery Alaska cruise
Approximately 3–5 days on land
2–3 nights at Holland America Denali Lodge
The McKinley Explorer® railway
The Tundra Wilderness Tour into Denali National Park
Anchorage and/or Fairbanks, depending on the itinerary
Additional experiences on select itineraries, such as Riverboat Discovery in Fairbanks

One of the biggest advantages of Signature Denali is the amount of time you can spend at Denali. Some Signature itineraries include three nights at Denali , which can be fantastic if Denali National Park is the main reason you’re extending your Alaska cruise. Three nights also gives you more breathing room. Instead of arriving, taking your park tour and immediately moving on, you have more time to enjoy the lodge and surrounding area or add an optional excursion.

Who Is Signature Denali Best For?

I usually recommend looking closely at Signature Denali if:

Denali is your main priority.
You want two or three nights at Denali.
You don't necessarily need a full week-long land tour.
You want to combine Alaska’s interior with a 7-night cruise without making the overall vacation too long.
You like having some independent time rather than traveling with a Tour Director throughout the land portion.

Signature can be an excellent middle ground between Holland America’s shorter Classic Cruisetours and the more extensive Ultimate itineraries.

Ultimate Alaska & Denali: A Bigger Alaska Land Experience

Ultimate Alaska & Denali takes the experience a step further. Instead of concentrating primarily on Denali, Ultimate is designed for travelers who want to see more of Alaska’s interior and another distinctive Alaska destination .

Ultimate Cruisetours generally include:

A 7-day Glacier Discovery Alaska cruise
Approximately 7 days on land
2 nights at Holland America Denali Lodge
The Tundra Wilderness Tour
McKinley Explorer® rail travel
A Tour Director - This is a detail that's often overlooked but it's invaluable.
Additional Alaska destinations depending on the itinerary
Visits to Alyeska, Seward, or Homer
An Alaska Wildlife Conservation Center experience

That last part is one of the biggest differences.

With Ultimate, Denali isn't the only star of the land portion.

You can choose an itinerary that adds another part of Alaska that most cruise passengers never get to experience.

Ultimate Denali + Seward

Seward is a beautiful coastal town on the Kenai Peninsula and the gateway to Kenai Fjords National Park.

This option can be particularly attractive for travelers who want to combine Alaska's interior wilderness with its dramatic coastal scenery.

You get Denali — but you also get another completely different side of Alaska.

Ultimate Denali + Homer

Homer has a very different personality.

Located on Kachemak Bay, Homer is known for incredible scenery, wildlife, fishing and its famous Homer Spit.

For travelers who have dreamed about seeing some of Alaska beyond the traditional cruise ports, Homer can make the Ultimate itinerary especially appealing.

Ultimate Denali + Alyeska

Alyeska brings you into the beautiful Girdwood area south of Anchorage.

Surrounded by mountains and spectacular scenery, it offers another perspective on Alaska and works beautifully for travelers who want a more scenic, resort-style stop as part of their journey.

One Major Difference: Tour Director vs. Independent Travel

This is a difference that sometimes gets overlooked.

Ultimate Alaska & Denali includes a Tour Director. Signature Alaska & Denali does not.

A Tour Director travels with the group during the overland portion and helps coordinate the journey while also providing information and insight along the way. That can make Ultimate appealing if you prefer a more escorted style of travel. Signature is still organized by Holland America, including your scheduled transportation and included experiences, but it gives the trip a somewhat more independent feel.

Neither style is necessarily better — they're simply different ways to experience Alaska.

What About the Tundra Wilderness Tour?

This is an important point because not every Holland America Denali itinerary includes the same park experience.

Both Signature and Ultimate Alaska & Denali Cruisetours include the Tundra Wilderness Tour , subject to National Park Service operating dates and availability. That makes both options attractive for travelers who want more than just a quick visit to Denali.

The Tundra Wilderness Tour takes you deeper into Denali National Park and provides opportunities to experience the landscape and search for wildlife such as moose, caribou, Dall sheep and bears.

The Biggest Surprise: Signature Can Give You MORE Time at Denali

This is where travelers sometimes assume Ultimate automatically means “more Denali.” It doesn't necessarily.

Some Signature itineraries include three nights at Denali , while Ultimate itineraries typically include two nights at Denali .

Why? Because Ultimate uses the additional land-tour time to show you more of Alaska , adding destinations such as Homer, Seward or Alyeska.

Think of it this way:

Signature = deeper focus on Denali.

Ultimate = broader Alaska experience.

That distinction can make choosing between them much easier.

Want Help Choosing the Right Holland America Alaska Cruisetour?

This is exactly where working with a travel advisor who understands Alaska Cruisetours can make a difference. There are a lot of Holland America itinerary codes and combinations, and I don't believe you should have to figure out D1, D2, D3, D5, land-first, cruise-first and every other variation by yourself.

I can compare the actual itineraries you're considering and help you look at:

How many nights you really have at Denali
Which destinations are included
Which excursions are included
How much time is spent traveling between destinations
Land-first vs. cruise-first
Cabin options
Current promotions
Overall trip cost

My goal isn't simply to help you book an Alaska cruise.

It's to help you choose the Alaska experience that fits the way you want to travel.

Ready to start planning your Alaska cruise and Cruisetour?

There is no cost to you to work with a trusted travel advisor like me. Contact Take a Peek Travel and let's find the Holland America Alaska itinerary that's right for you.

Is Carnival Coming for Royal Caribbean’s Family Cruisers?

Sun, 13 Sep 2026 19:28:13 GMT

Carnival Wants Families Back—Can It Catch Royal Caribbean?

For a while now, Royal Caribbean has been the cruise line I think of when someone asks me about cruising with kids and teens.

And honestly, they’ve earned that reputation. Between Oasis Class and now Icon Class, Royal Caribbean has gone all-in on families. We’re talking waterparks, FlowRiders, rock climbing walls, ice skating, zip lines, huge shows, teen spaces and enough things to do that your kids really shouldn’t have the chance to tell you they’re bored.

But lately, I’ve been watching Carnival—and I think Carnival wants some of those families back.

Are they beating Royal Caribbean at the family cruise game yet?

No, and it's going to be a while.

But I definitely think they’re making progress.

And after cruising on Carnival Celebration with my own family, I think there’s a much bigger conversation to be had about Carnival and families than there was a few years ago.

Carnival Is Changing

If you haven’t cruised Carnival in years, you may still have a certain picture in your head of what a Carnival cruise looks like. You might have heard Carnival referred to as "Walmart" of the seas, or gotten the impression that Carnival was not safe for family cruising.

The newer ships are changing that. Carnival Celebration is part of Carnival’s Excel Class, and these ships feel like Carnival’s answer to families who want the ship itself to be a big part of their vacation. Celebration has BOLT, the roller coaster at sea, along with waterslides, a ropes course, mini golf, basketball, pools, kids clubs and plenty of other things going on throughout the ship. It's sister ships, Jubilee and Mardi Gras are very bit as fantastic, if not even better.

Is it Icon of the Seas?

No, and it NEVER will be.

But I don’t think Carnival needs it to be.

Because Carnival has something else going for it that can make a BIG difference when you’re paying for an entire family to cruise.

Price.

This Is Where Carnival Gets Really Interesting

I always tell my clients that the “best” ship isn't necessarily the ship with the most stuff. It's the ship that gives your family the vacation you're looking for at a price you're comfortable paying. Because let's be realistic. If one cruise costs your family $5,000 and another costs $8,000, we can't just ignore that $3,000 difference because one ship has a few more bells and whistles.

What could you do with that extra money?

Upgrade your cabin?
Book some amazing excursions?
Add a drink package?
Stay an extra night before the cruise?

Or just…keep $3,000 in your bank account?

That's where I think Carnival has an opportunity. Royal Caribbean may still have more of the big WOW attractions, especially on Icon Class, but Carnival doesn't necessarily need to beat them feature for feature.

They need parents to look at the price and say:

“My kids are going to have a blast on BOTH of these ships. Is the other one really worth that much more?”

That's a very different question.

And Then We Actually Took OUR Family on Carnival Celebration

This is where my opinion started getting more interesting. We recently sailed Carnival Celebration as a family, so I wasn't just looking at a list of amenities on Carnival's website anymore. I was watching what my own family actually did. We brought my sister's family as well, so the ages were 2, 6, 10, 11, 13, and 17. Essentially, a good sampling of every age group.

The youngest cruisers LOVED the kids clubs. Different activities every hour for every age means no one was bored. The food options for kids were "normal" and consisted of favorites like hot dogs, burgers and mac & cheese. The shows kept them captivated, and the ship size makes it easier to reach ports that some kids only dream of visiting. The water slides and ropes course were a BIG hit. And a ROLLER COASTER?? Are you kidding me?

The teens initially thought they were going to be too cool for the teen clubs. However, we required our teens to visit the first night, and our they came out with new friends and after that, they were always with the friend group. They still message some of those other teens even now, with life long friends made.

We never felt unsafe, and never saw any rowdy fights or crazy parties. The ship was absolutely beautiful and sparkling clean. It was everything that a family friendly cruise should be.

Because this is something I've learned from planning family vacations: What looks impressive on a website and what your kids ACTUALLY care about once they're onboard can be two completely different things. You can give a teenager 47 activities, and they might spend half the cruise doing the same three things with the friends they met onboard.

And honestly? If they're having the time of their life, who cares?

Royal Caribbean Still Wins in Some Areas

I'm not suddenly going to tell everyone that Carnival has passed Royal Caribbean for families. They haven't. Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class ships are still some of my favorite ships to recommend for families, especially families traveling with older kids and teens. And Icon Class is on another level when it comes to building an entire ship around family vacations.

Royal has spent YEARS creating that reputation and Carnival isn't going to undo that overnight. But the gap doesn't feel as big to me as it once did. Especially when you start comparing the actual price of the vacation instead of just comparing which ship has the longest list of attractions.

Carnival Isn't Done Yet Either

This might be the part I'm most interested in. Carnival is still investing in new ships and new experiences. So I don't think Celebration is the end of Carnival's push toward families. I think we're watching them figure out how to take what people already love about Carnival—the fun, casual atmosphere and usually more approachable pricing—and combine it with the bigger attractions families are looking for. And if they can do that without their prices climbing into the same territory as Royal Caribbean's newest ships?

Royal should probably be paying attention.

So, Is Carnival Taking Families Back From Royal Caribbean?

Not yet.

If you ask me today which cruise line has the advantage for families overall, I'm still giving Royal Caribbean the win. But I'm not dismissing Carnival anymore. They're getting closer. And I think Carnival is realizing something really important: They don't have to build another Icon of the Seas. They just have to give families enough that the kids have an AMAZING vacation while giving Mom and Dad a price that's hard to ignore.

Because if my kids are going to have an incredible week either way, and Carnival is thousands of dollars less? I'm going to stop and look at Carnival. And I think more families are going to start doing the same thing.

Which One Would I Recommend for Your Family?

It depends. And I know that's not the fun answer—but it's the truth. I have families I would put on Royal Caribbean all day long. I have others where I would tell them to save the money and book Carnival.

It depends on your kids' ages, what your family likes to do, which ships we're comparing, the itinerary, where you have to fly, what kind of cabin you need and how much each option actually costs. That's also why I don't believe in just saying, “Royal Caribbean is better” or “Carnival is better.”

Better for WHO?

Tell me who's traveling, what your kids are into and what you want to spend. Then we can figure out which one is better for you.

And if you're stuck between Carnival and Royal Caribbean for your next family cruise, that's exactly what I do at Take a Peek Travel. I'll help you compare the options and figure out where your vacation dollars are going to give your family the experience you're actually looking for. You can start by clicking the button below, and requesting an apppointment with me. Let's talk about the perfect cruise for you. And the best part? The cruise line pays me once you book, so it costs you nothing for the extra help.

5 Things to Know Before Booking Your Alaska Cruise or CruiseTour

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 18:46:48 GMT

Is Alaska on Your Bucket List?

Sparkling glaciers. Mountains with the most beautiful snowy peaks. Whales blowing ocean spray feet into the air. Charming, picturesque small towns. It's some of the most incredible scenery you will see.

Most people consider Alaska to be a bucket list destination. If that's the case for you, there are a few things you should consider before booking an Alaska cruise or cruisetour. Planning Alaska is not as simple as choosing a time of year or ship. Alaska cruises and itineraries that look similar may have very different experiences. The ports, glaciers, cabin location, excursions and the decision to add a land portion of the trip can all make a big impact on what kind of vacation you ultimately have.

Before you book, here are 5 things I recommend every traveler looking to visit Alaska by cruise ship or cruisetour should know.

Thinking About Alaska in 2027 or 2028?

There are hundreds of Alaska cruise and cruisetour options, and the "best" one depends on what you want to experience. If you don't understand the difference between a DSC cruisetour and a D3L, then working with a professional who knows Alaska might be the ticket.

I specialize in helping travelers compare Alaska cruises, cruisetours, Denali options, cabins and itineraries - and my cruise planning services are complimentary when you book your cruise through me.

1. Not all Alaska Itineraries are the Same.

Before you choose a cruise ship, or even a cruise line, decide which itinerary is a must-do for this vacation. Many cruises visit:

Juneau
Ketchikan
Skagway
Sitka
Ice Strait Point

Pay close attention to how long the ship stays in each port. One itinerary might keep your ship in port for just a few hours, while another can give you an entire day to thoroughly explore.

However, glaciers and where the ship intends to cruise past can also be critical parts of the itinerary. Your cruise itinerary might include Glacier Bay, Hubbard Glacier, College Fjord or Tracy Arm.

If you are adding a land portion, you may also want to visit:

Fairbanks
Anchorage
Denali National Park
Seward

Take a Peek Takeaway: When comparing Alaskan cruises and cruisetours, don't just count the NUMBER of ports. Look at which ports you will visit, time in port, land destinations and scenic cruising that is included.

2. Round Trip Cruises and One-Way Cruises Offer Very Different Experiences

Most Alaska cruise-only vacations start in Seattle, Washington or Vancouver, British Columbia and can be either one-way or round trip, depending on the itinerary. Cruisetours often begin in Vancouver, BC or Fairbanks, Alaska and are a one-way trip. Seattle cruises are almost always round-trip. While passports are always recommended, they are required for the one-way options from Vancouver, Fairbanks or Whittier. This makes Seattle more appealing if you don't have a passport, or don't want to get one. Round trip cruises can also be convenient when it comes to flights, since a round-trip ticket is a possibility.

However, if you prioritize scenery, a cruisetour from Vancouver or Fairbanks is the way to go every time . This opens the options to exploring Alaska's interior. If Denali is on your bucket list, make sure you compare all of the cruisetour options. One of the biggest advantages of an Alaska cruisetour is experiencing parts of Alaska you simply can’t reach on a traditional round-trip cruise. You’ll have the opportunity to ride the spectacular glass-domed McKinley Explorer train and venture deep into Denali on the Tundra Wilderness Tour—one of the best opportunities to spot Alaska’s iconic wildlife, including grizzlies, caribou, Dall sheep, moose, and even wolves, surrounded by some of the most breathtaking scenery in the state.

3. A Cruisetour Can Turn Your Cruise Into a True Alaska Adventure

A cruisetour combines (typically) a 7 night cruise with a land journey into Alaska's interior, while a cruise explores only the coastline and ports in Southeast Alaska.

Depending on your itinerary, your cruisetour land portion may include:

Denali National Park
Anchorage
Fairbanks
Talkeetna
Alyeska
Seward

Select itineraries may include scenic rail travel or travel by smaller boat. The most popular cruisetours range from 10-14 days, but longer cruisetours are available. Just taking a longer cruisetour doesn't guarantee that it's the best one for you. Transportation included, hotel nights, included activities and how much time you have in each city matter.

Not sure which Alaksa itinerary is right for you?

I can help you compare cruise lines, itinerares, cruisetours, and Denali options based on what matters most to you.

4. Your Cabin Choice Matters More in Alaska

The most popular room for an Alaskan cruise is a balcony room. The scenery outside the ship is the star of the show, and having a private place to experience the wonder is invaluable. Imagine waking up, stepping onto your balcony with a cup of coffee and watching a whale perform a show so spectacular that a picture or a video could never do it justice.

So, do you have to have a balcony to have an amazing cruise? No, an interior or Oceanview cabin can be a good way to save money. Any room on a cruise is better than being at work, am I right?? Having a balcony matters less if you plan to spend the majority of your time on the upper decks of the ship rather than in your room.

Sometimes, moving down just one cabin category can save you hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars without taking away from the overall experience. On the other hand, moving up a category can completely elevate your trip, adding extra space, exclusive perks, or special touches that make your vacation feel like something truly extraordinary.

5. The Best Time to Visit Depends on What you Want to See

The Alaska cruise season typically runs from spring through early fall, and every part of the seasons has different advantages.

May - Often cooler with beautiful snow still visible on the mountains. Early-season pricing can be attractive.
June - Long daylight hours and the beginning of Alaska's busy summer season. This is also the start of best part of the year to see Humpback Whales. The best chance of seeing an Orca also begins in late June.
July - Typically one of the warmest and most popular times to visit Alaska. Pricing will be highest during this time. This is also the peak of whale sighting season.
August - Excellent summer cruising with plenty of opportunities for wildlife and beautiful scenery.
September - Cooler temps and cheaper pricing with end-of-season deals. Chance to see changing fall colors.

There is no "right or best" time of year to visit Alaska by cruise ship or cruisetour. If pricing is a factor, May or September might be particularly appealing. If seeing a whale is a must-do, then late June through July might be the right choice for you.

BONUS: 10 QUESTIONS TO ASK BEFORE BOOKING

Before placing a deposit, ask yourself:

Do I want a round-trip cruise or one-way itinerary or cruisetour?
Is visiting Denali important to me?
Which glacier experiences are most important to me?
How much time does my itinerary give me in each port?
Do I want a balcony?
How much should I budget for excursions?
Which cruise line fits me the best?
Do I want to arrive a day or two before the cruise or cruisetour?

If you don't know the answers yet, that's okay. That's exactly what cruise planning services are for.

Ready to Start Planning Alaska?

You don't have to spend weeks Googling, comparing, or asking ChatGPT by yourself. I can help! As your travel advisor, I'll help you compare your options and find an Alaska vacation that fits your travel style and budget.

I can help with:

Alaska Cruises
Alaska Cruisetours
Cruise line comparisons
Itinerary slection
Cabin choices
Denali and land tour options
Pre-and post- cruise hotels
Excursion recommendations
Packing lists/ Do's and Don'ts
Travel planning from deposit through arrival home

When you book your cruise through me, my cruise planning services come at no cost to you.

Your Alaska adventure starts with a conversation. Just click the link below to start.

Denali National Park

What's the Best Royal Caribbean Cruise for Kids and Teens?

Fri, 28 Aug 2026 20:21:42 GMT

Our Cruise on Wonder, and Why Oasis Class is Hard to Beat

I often get asked, what's the best Royal Caribbean cruise ship for kids and teens? Choosing the right cruise can make a huge difference in your vacation experience.

Royal Caribbean has some of the most family-friendly cruise ships at sea, but not every ship offers the same experience. If your kids want waterslides, activities, sports, entertainment, and plenty of places to hang out—and you want enough options to keep everyone happy without hearing “I’m bored” halfway through the trip—there’s one group of ships I recommend families look at closely:

Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class.

These massive ships offer an incredible combination of activities for younger kids, independence for teenagers, entertainment the whole family can enjoy, and plenty for the adults, too.

What Are Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class Ships?

Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class includes:

Oasis of the Seas
Allure of the Seas
Harmony of the Seas
Symphony of the Seas
Wonder of the Seas
Utopia of the Seas

We recently cruise on Wonder of the Seas. Here's what we learned during our cruise as a family with three teens...

Oasis Class Entertainment is a Huge Advantage

The entertainment on the Oasis class ship is next level.

There's 365: Season on Ice at the ice skating rink (yes, you read that right). The show is fun, moving and impressive. You can even free skate on this rink at different times during the cruise. If you are going to participate in free skate, make sure you bring long pants and socks.

Then, there's InTENse. This unique water show features performers that dive into a 15 ft deep pool on the pool deck, while we are cruising . The skill and focus that takes to do this safely just blows my mind and it will really impress kids of all ages.

The ship also features interactive game shows, Bingo, trivia and other activities throughout the cruise. I won 3rd place in a round of Price is Right. So much fun! The Boardwalk neighborhood at the back of the ship features a full size carousel (adults can ride too!) and the AquaTheater. This neighborhood periodically (not on every sailing) hosts a kid-focused block party complete with balloon animals and face painting.

There's a zip line, a splash pad zone, and multiple pools and water slides guaranteed to keep your kids begging for another cruise even before you get off of this one. My teens also loved the Teen Club where they could hang out and do whatever it is that teens do. ��

The Neighborhood Concept Makes the Ships Feel Different

Now, before you come for me, I'm aware that Icon class ships also feature the neighborhood concept. Even some other cruise lines are adopting this innovative design in their ships. However, Oasis class did it first, and they did it right. This ship has eight unique neighborhoods that really give different areas their own vibe.

Especially if you are planning a multi-generation cruise, these areas give families lots of choices without everyone feeling like they are spending the entire vacation around a swimming pool. You can enjoy live plants in Central Park for a bit, then head to the Royal Promenade for some shopping and a quick bite. I promise, you are going to have to remind yourself you are on a cruise ship. It's really that enormous.

The shorter 3 and 4 night cruises are a blast, but they are going to leave you feeling like you didn't even get to see everything. Just another reason to follow this cruise up with...another one.

Why Oasis Class is So Good for Kids and Teens

I hear it constantly. Will my kid be bored?? I can confidently tell you that Oasis class was made for this question and the answer is a resounding "NO"! There's always something to do. You can experience activities like these on every Oasis class ship:

Mini Golf
Ultimate Abyss - a massive dry slide
Rock climbing
FloRider
Sports Courts
Arcade
Adventure Ocean Kids Clubs
Teen Club
And more...

What about the parents? Nope, you guys won't be bored either. For you there is:

Trivia
Vitality Spa and Fitness Center
Solarium - the Adult-Only Pool Area
Live Music
Bars and Nightlife
Date Night at Main Dining or a Specialty Restaurant

Is Oasis Class Better Than Icon Class for Families?

Well, no. Icon class ships have taken cruising to another level that frankly can't be touched by Oasis Class or even any other cruise line. However, Icon class ships have a price point that matches the demand. Oasis class ships consistently come in much less expensive than Icon class, simply because the demand has shifted that direction and these ships are (depending on the ship) just a bit older. For some families, Icon class will absolutely be the right choice.

Oasis Class can give families many of the Royal Caribbean experiences they are looking for but at a much lower overall cost. If you are a family of more than 4, this really begins to be true. Icon class is designed for the "traditional" family size or smaller. Once you add a 5th member, the price point really jumps. Oasis class has rooms built especially for larger families, so it's the clear winner if that's your family size.

Need help choosing the right Royal Caribbean ship?

With so many choices, it can become overwhelming to choose the right ship for your family. As a cruise-focused travel advisor, I can help you compare the options and narrow them down based on your family's ages, budget, and travel style. I can help you find the Royal Caribbean cruise (or another line) that fits your family, not simply the one with the biggest advertising campaign.

Most cruises booked with me come with complimentary onboard credit, and it costs you nothing to benefit from my experience. Ready to start planning? Click the link below, and let's find the ship your kids will still be talking about long after you get home.

Why the Celebrity Beyond Lives Up To It's Name

Fri, 07 Aug 2026 16:16:53 GMT

My Review of Celebrity Beyond

Embarkation/Disembarkation ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

On embarkation day, we took Lyft from the Pier Sixty-Six, our hotel, to Terminal A. This terminal is used for Celebrity and Royal Caribbean sailings leaving from Miami, FL.

We arrived right around 12 P.M. to find that the terminal was not too busy. We gave our luggage to the porters, and then made our way into the terminal. Terminal security is similar to TSA security at the airport. First, you show your boarding documents (passport and/or birth certificate, ID and boarding pass to the embarkation staff. Then, you place your carry-on items through the scanner and scan your boarding pass several times during the process. There is a place to take a pre-boarding photo as a group if you desire. My husband is not a fan of photos, so we just went right through. This was probably the fastest boarding process I have experienced.

After we boarded, we went straight to our muster station, to complete our safety briefing. The ship can't leave until everyone has done this, so we get it knocked out before we do anything else. We went straight to our room, and dropped off our carry-on luggage, so we would not have to be bothered with them.

Next, we went to get some food at the very extensive buffet and watched the sail away from the back of the ship. Norwegian Escape was docked nearby, and we were able to see Carnival Magic and Carnival Celebration sail away on their way out of the port. Next thing we knew, we were also on our way out to the open sea.

Getting back off the ship was just as easy. We carried off our own luggage, and were in the Lyft by 8:30 A.M. We easily made a 12:00 P.M. flight out of FLL with Delta.

Activities ⭐⭐⭐⭐

During the day on the Celebrity Beyond, we spent the days resting by the pool and recharging. The Beyond is beautiful and it features a very laid back vibe. You are more likely to see pool aerobics and bingo than you are to see hip hop dance lessons.

There are no water slides on this ship. That's not a problem for us, as this was a couples trip and I never use the water slides anyways. The pool was crowded at times, but the drink servers were quick and friendly. There was live music by the pool at different times of day, and it was all excellent.

At night, you can choose to see a show or relax in the fantastic nighttime vibe of the ship. Every show was high quality. There was a comedian, a magic show, acrobatic shows and vocal shows that blew us away. The ship itself is stunning at night. The rooftop garden and the sunset bar because our go-two hangout spots after dark. There is smoking in designated areas on this ship, so my husband enjoyed a nightly cigar just down from the sunset bar.

I would have given this ship 5 stars on activities if there had been just a bit more to do.

Amenities ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The amenities on the ship were absolutely "Beyond". Everything was sparkling clean, and the staff were so friendly and welcoming. Our infinite verandah was spacious and modern. A infinite verandah features a window that goes up and down to create a "balcony like" effect. It is not a balcony. We knew this going in, and enjoyed it. We did not open the window much, so it really functioned more like a spacious Oceanview. Note that there are real balconies on this ship, called Sunset Balconies or there are real balconies available on some of the Suites in the Retreat. They are limited availability. Our room was on deck 7, Room 7220, and centrally located. It was an easy walk to the stairs or the elevator in minutes. Note that the magic carpet does move up and down during the day, unoccupied in front view of this room.

One nice thing about the Beyond is that it has more traditional daily service, with the room attendant coming twice daily to clean and maintain the room. Another surprise is how much storage there was in the room. It was more than enough, and almost double what we had when we sailed on Wonder of the Seas in a traditional balcony. We got small chocolates nightly, which was a pleasant touch. There are water and snacks in the room for purchase.

One thing I didn't love is the lack of plug-ins around the room. There is one to the right of the bed, where my husband slept, but none on my side. There are plugs on the desk but they were European style. I ended up plugging my phone and watch into the bathroom, but carefully as there was a GFCI and it tripped easily.

Overall, we would choose this room again on this ship.

Food ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Celebrity Beyond has four main dining rooms - Tuscan, Cosmopolitan, Normandy, and Cypress, as well as a well-appointed buffet. Everything we ate in the buffet and main dining was delicious. The only thing I didn't like about the buffet was how crowded it got at peak times and the severe lack of seating. The line for ice cream was not self service and was quite long.

Of the four main dining rooms, we had the best service at Normandy. This is likely due to it's overall lack of popularity during the time we were on the ship. This resulted in fewer guests dining there at any given time so faster and more attentive service. Our favorite food was at Cosmopolitan, where the most traditionally American food is served. You are able to go to any of these restaurants you choose, with each one serving the same menu with an additional of exclusive items just for that location. You can ask for any of the menus, no matter where you are dining. No reservation is required, and we never waited for a table of two. Evening meals require more dressy attire, with most nights requesting that you come Smart Casual. Shorts are not allowed during dinner. Lunch is more laid back in main dining, with a three course meal being served there daily. There are also a couple of lunch spots that are included on the ship, but these serve mostly sandwiches and finger foods.

Specialty dining on this ship is unique. We went to La Petite Chef, which uses projectors on the ceiling to give you both a 4 course meal and a show. The "little chef" prepares each dish before it's served. We enjoyed lobster tails and delicious soup as just some of the courses. I also heard good feedback about Raw on 5, the seafood restaurant, and the Steakhouse on board.

None of these meals came close to our experience at Eden, though. This restaurant is on the aft of the ship, with views of the ship's wake and at different times of the cruise, the most fantastic sunset views. It's located in Eden, a three story lounge area of the ship which is in itself a destination. The entire back of Eden is glass, so you won't miss a thing. We had crab cakes to die for, as well as filet and a dessert tower with chocolate selections that wasn't even the main dessert. Based on our experience, I consider this a must-do specialty restaurant.

Who would I recommend this ship to?

If I were looking at this ship for a client , I would recommend this ship to couples or solo travelers looking for a relaxing, laid back vibe. Although this ship does have a kids club, it does not have the FlowRider or water slides that the Royal Caribbean ships have that appeal to kids. There were less than 50 kids on board during our July 2026 sailing.

If you are looking for a heavy party vibe, this is not the ship for you. If you are looking for a good way to visit some ports that the mega-ships can't reach, and prefer a more upscale and sophisticated experience, then I highly recommend you consider the Celebrity Beyond. It's fantastic!

Let's explore options for your next cruise. Every sailing comes with onboard credit. Click "Schedule a Consultation" below to set up a quick meeting with Emily to customize the cruise of your dreams.

Why River Cruising is the Best Way to Explore Europe

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 08:54:22 GMT

If you love ocean cruises, it's time to try river cruising!

Why River Cruising is the Best Way to Explore Europe

There’s something special about Europe. The history, the architecture, the food, the little towns that look like they belong on a postcard — there’s so much to see that figuring out how to see it all can be overwhelming.

You can hop from hotel to hotel, spend hours on trains, rent a car and attempt to navigate unfamiliar roads…or you can unpack your suitcase once, step aboard a river cruise, and let Europe come to you.

That’s exactly why I think river cruising is one of the best ways to explore Europe.

You Unpack Once

This might be my favorite part.

Traditional European vacations can involve changing hotels every few days. That means packing, checking out, hauling luggage to the train station, traveling to the next city, checking into another hotel and doing it all over again a couple of days later.

On a river cruise, your ship becomes your floating hotel.

You unpack once, settle into your room and wake up somewhere new — sometimes right in the heart of another beautiful European town.

Instead of spending your vacation getting from one destination to another, you're actually enjoying the destinations.

You're Traveling While You Sleep

One of the biggest advantages of river cruising is how much time you save.

While you're having dinner, enjoying a glass of wine or sleeping comfortably in your cabin, the ship can be making its way toward your next stop.

Imagine going to bed in one part of Germany and waking up the next morning, opening your curtains and seeing a completely different town outside.

There are no airport security lines. No dragging luggage through train stations. No figuring out how you're getting from the station to your hotel.

Your transportation is already taken care of.

River Cruises Take You Right Into the Heart of Europe

Ocean cruises are wonderful, but many large European cruise ports are located some distance from the places you actually want to visit.

River cruising is different.

Because the ships are much smaller, they can sail directly into cities and towns along Europe's rivers. In many destinations, you can literally walk off the ship and start exploring.

One morning you might be wandering through a medieval village. The next you're touring a castle, visiting a Christmas market or sitting at a café watching everyday European life happen around you.

That's the kind of travel experience I love.

You Get to See the Smaller Towns, Too

Paris, Amsterdam, Vienna and Budapest absolutely deserve a place on your travel list.

But some of my favorite European experiences are the smaller places you might never think to visit on your own.

River cruises make those destinations easy.

Depending on your itinerary, you might visit tiny villages, wine regions, historic towns and places that would require quite a bit of planning to reach independently.

And sometimes those unexpected stops end up being the places you remember most.

A Lot Is Already Included

Another thing I love about river cruising is how much is typically included in your trip.

Depending on the cruise line, your fare may include meals, beverages, Wi-Fi, excursions and other amenities.

That makes budgeting for Europe much easier because you're not constantly pulling out your wallet for transportation, tours and meals.

Different river cruise lines include different things, though, which is one reason choosing the right river cruise matters just as much as choosing the itinerary.

Some lines are more active. Some are more luxurious. Some include more excursions or beverages. Others are better suited for travelers who want more independence.

There isn't one river cruise line that's perfect for everyone.

The Scenery Is Part of the Vacation

This is one of the biggest differences between river cruising and traveling Europe by land.

On a train, you're trying to get somewhere.

On a river cruise, the journey itself is part of the experience.

You can sit on the top deck while sailing past vineyards, castles, villages and countryside. You might spend an afternoon cruising through one of Europe's most scenic stretches of river while someone points out castles sitting high above the water.

You aren't losing a vacation day to transportation.

You're sightseeing the entire time.

The Ships Are Smaller and More Relaxed

If you've only experienced large ocean cruise ships, river cruising feels completely different.

You won't find giant waterparks, thousands of passengers or a long list of activities happening every hour.

River cruises are much smaller and more intimate.

The focus isn't necessarily on the ship.

The destination is the star.

Your ship is there to give you a comfortable place to relax, eat, sleep and enjoy the scenery while taking you from one incredible European destination to the next.

You Can Experience Several Countries in One Trip

This is where river cruising really shines.

A single itinerary can take you through multiple countries without you having to coordinate transportation between them.

Depending on the river and itinerary you choose, you could visit places in Germany, Austria, Hungary, France, Switzerland, the Netherlands and more.

Think about how much planning it would take to organize hotels, trains, transfers, tours and meals across several countries.

With a river cruise, much of that work has already been done for you.

It's a Completely Different Way to Experience Europe

River cruising isn't about rushing through a checklist of famous landmarks.

It's slower.

It's more immersive.

You have time to wander through a town, stop at a café, visit a local market, tour a vineyard or simply sit on the ship and watch Europe pass by.

And for travelers who want to experience several parts of Europe without spending half their vacation worrying about logistics, it's hard to beat.

Which European River Cruise Is Right for You?

This is where things can get confusing because there are a lot of choices.

The Rhine? The Danube? The Seine? The Rhône? The Douro?

Then you have to decide which cruise line, which itinerary, what time of year to travel and which cabin makes sense.

That's where working with a travel advisor who understands cruising can make the process much easier.

I help my clients look beyond just the price of the cruise and figure out which experience actually fits the way they want to travel.

Because the best river cruise isn't necessarily the most expensive one — or the one everyone else is taking.

It's the one that's right for you.

If Europe has been sitting on your bucket list, river cruising might just be the way you finally experience it.

And the hardest part may be deciding which river you want to explore first.

To get started, click the button below to schedule a consultation. We will discuss the trip you have in mind, and find the perfect river cruise for you.